Remuneration

A research scholar initially receives a stipend of approximately Rs 2,000 per month. After absorption, salary grades are commensurate with those of Readers or Professors in academic institutions. Remuneration is higher in private sector companies.

Long months away from home can prove both boring and lonely. Oceanographers have to work in all kinds of climatic conditions, in places where the weather could be inclement or even hazardous. At times it involves working very hard round the clock, and at others, a great deal of waiting around for results. Also, living in a close professional community brings its own problems, such as the fierce competition for job promotions, etc. This is definitely not a career for those with a tendency towards seasickness.

As with all research-oriented jobs, hard work here is rewarded with the joy of discovery and an exhilarating sense of achievement. If life at sea is lonely, it is compensated, at least. in part, by the material comforts provided on board the vessel, and the community feeling generated by fellow colleagues. Most of all, there is the great opportunity for adventure in. visiting places and experiencing situations that most other people never get a chance to.